Charged up: The 2015 Volkswagen e-Golf is VW's first foray with an electric car in America.

2015 Volkswagen Golf Research

What's New

The Volkswagen Golf is one of the world's greatest-selling models of all-time, and the 2015 Volkswagen e-Golf represents the automaker's first foray into the world of electric cars here in America.Aesthetically, the 2015 VW e-Golf will be instantly recognizable as a Golf, but unique touches such as standard all-LED headlights, blue accents and unique badges--and of course the lack of a tailpipe--will all signal that this is an EV. The e-Golf will employ a 24.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and 115 horsepower electric motor, with a 7.2 kW onboard charger standard. Wired for fast charging, the Volkswagen e-Golf can charge 80 percent within a half-hour, though plugging in to a standard 110/120 volt outlet will take up to 20 hours for a full charge. Available goodies inside include touchscreen navigation, keyless access with push-button start, and heated seats among other features.

Who It's For

The 2015 Volkswagen e-Golf will primarily take on the Nissan Leaf--and to a lesser extent--other electric cars such as the Fiat 500e and Mitsubishi i-MiEV. With an estimated range between 70-90 miles on a full charge (similar to a Leaf), the e-Golf will appeal to city commuters; we expect urban areas in California, and along the coasts to be the primary target, as well as a few other select markets. While EVs have been slower to catch on than automakers originally anticipated, interest is beginning to grow as technology and charging networks develop, and with more premium models like the Tesla Model S continuing to grow the EV conversation. With range anxiety being a primary concern for potential EV buyers, Volkswagen will also offer a new roadside assistance plan. The plan covers drivers within 100 miles of their home, with the assistance provider delivering the car to a nearby charging source, and even paying for a taxi if the owner elects not to travel with the car.

Key Features

The 2015 Volkswagen e-Golf is the first VW electric vehicle in America. Using technology developed in-house, the automaker expands its Think Blue, sustainability approach.

What We Think

With automakers expected to have more fuel-efficient lineups, the 2015 Volkswagen e-Golf is a logical play for the automaker. Available in select urban areas, the e-Golf will bank on the classic styling and appeal of the Volkswagen Golf for its first foray into the electric vehicle market here in America. While expectations aren't high as EVs such as the Nissan Leaf haven't caught on as expected, the 2015 e-Golf could end up being a pleasant surprise for Volkswagen, as interest in the segment continues to grow. We've had a sampling of VW's electric capability on the automaker's hybrid vehicles such as the Jetta Hybrid and XL1, and look forward to getting behind the wheel of the e-Golf.